Facility Renovation: Fresh Foods Distribution/Logistics Center

Our client, a leading online retailer of groceries and consumer goods, approached POWER about delivering a series of projects to convert existing facilities into distribution and logistics centers. Located in the hearts of various urban centers around the world, these projects featured extremely aggressive schedules and budgets. POWER has partnered with various contractors to deliver these projects under a Design-Build methodology. The projects were successful due to our team’s close coordination with the client and the Design-Build contractors, strong internal teamwork, and careful phasing of project activities.

This project, located in the Midwestern US, consisted of the renovation of a two story, 82,114 square foot, slab-on-grade, pre-cast concrete building with bar joist and metal roof deck located in a dense, urban center. Our team initially supported the client by assisting them with the conceptual evaluation of three potential locations. Our analysis helped them identify the final, selected location for which to execute a long-term lease.

Once a site was obtained, POWER A/E Consulting worked with the owner to create equipment and room layouts based on the pick patterns and design requirements. Tasks included building code, energy code and ADA accessibility analysis and the subsequent incorporation of these code requirements into the building modifications. A structural analysis was completed and additional structural support was added based on the new loading requirements. The new building was designed for two different distribution environments: one accommodating refrigerated or “chilled” products and the other supporting shelf-stable (ambient) goods. The facility included deli, bakery and produce preparation areas, refrigerated and frozen product storage, and ambient product storage and distribution.

The project required close coordination with various permitting authorities to expedite the building permit process. POWER’s design team included architectural, structural, civil, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and refrigeration services. Mechanical system design included evaluating the existing refrigeration system, design of new direct expansion refrigeration systems, plumbing, and HVAC modifications to the existing warehouse and office areas. All design activities on the project were completed within a compressed 6-7 week schedule.